You, Me, And a Tanuki is a weekly featured blog run by Michelle, a Californian who is currently one of only two foreigners living in Chibu, a tiny fishing village on one of the Oki islands in Japan. Check back every Saturday for a new post or read more on her website here!

Starting around the beginning of October, houses and trees throughout the neighborhood are dotted with orange orbs. It’s kaki season; time to eat some persimmons. The little fruits almost look like Christmas lights in the daytime, lining the rafters of the houses. They sway back and forth in the strong sea breeze and are susceptible to being stolen by the crows that lie in wait for an easy meal.